TINTORETTO
(b. 1518, Venezia, d. 1594, Venezia)

The Annunciation (detail)

1583-87
Oil on canvas
Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Venice

The once opulent palace is in an advanced state of disrepair. The frayed seat gives the lie to the princely bed, and the new mistress wears the everyday attire of a commoner. Doors and windows have gone. Angels pour in. There are contradictions in the living room and surprises in the carpenter's shop.